Episodios

  • How Elaine Transformed Her Life Through the Invictus Games and Warrior Games

    How Elaine Transformed Her Life Through the Invictus Games and Warrior Games
    Jan 8 2026
    In this episode, Joe engages in a heartfelt conversation with Elaine Hanson, who shares her extraordinary journey from a childhood shaped by fostering to a career in the military and beyond. Elaine reflects on her upbringing, the challenges of being a foster sibling, and the lessons learned about compassion and resilience. She recounts her military experience, including her time in the Women's Royal Army Corps and the abrupt end to her service due to a serious injury. KEY TAKEAWAYS The journey highlights the importance of resilience in overcoming personal and professional challenges, such as injuries and relationship issues. The ability to view setbacks as opportunities for growth is emphasised. Growing up in a foster care environment provided valuable lessons about compassion and understanding the complexities of childhood trauma, shaping a perspective that recognises the struggles of others. The transition from civilian life to military service and back again illustrates the significance of adaptability. Experiences in the military, including basic training and various roles, contributed to personal development and a sense of purpose. The struggle with physical and mental health issues, including cauda equina syndrome and functional neurological disorder, underscores the importance of seeking help and understanding one's health conditions over time. Participation in programs like Battle Back and Invictus Games demonstrates how sports can play a crucial role in recovery and rehabilitation, fostering community, resilience, and personal achievement. BEST MOMENTS "I was kind of in a bit of shock because at the time my brother wasn't born. I had my mum and dad to myself for six years." "I think it taught me a really good lesson. Not all kids have an idyllic childhood. Children have trauma, and it's more common than you could ever think of." "What was going on in your life then? It must have been horrific." "I didn't know what to do. I was upset about it. I pleaded with them to keep me in, but at that time they didn't do that." "I consider it as a challenge. I think you've got to be resilient and look at things outside the box." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    Más Menos
    1 h y 32 m
  • New Years Day 2026

    New Years Day 2026
    Jan 1 2026
    To kick off the New Year, Joe is reflecting on the transformative power of choice and its impact on personal growth and success. Building on insights from the previous episode, takes a look at the importance of taking responsibility for one's life and decisions, emphasising that everything we experience is a result of our choices. KEY TAKEAWAYS Every aspect of your life is a result of choices you make, whether consciously or unconsciously. Recognising this empowers you to take responsibility for your circumstances and outcomes. Taking a pause to check your direction and assess your situation is crucial. This reflection allows you to realign your goals and make informed decisions rather than rushing into actions that may lead you astray. The story you tell about your experiences shapes your perspective. Two people can face the same challenges but interpret them differently - one may see failure while the other sees an opportunity for growth. Progress is made through consistent, small choices rather than giant leaps. Each small step contributes to creating a path forward, emphasising the importance of daily actions in achieving long-term goals. Taking ownership of your actions and decisions is essential for personal development. By carrying your own "backpack" of responsibilities, you can move forward more freely and effectively towards your aspirations. BEST MOMENTS "Everything that is going on in your lives is a choice. And when that really sinks in, your life changes." "The conscious mind is what we think with. The unconscious mind, on the other hand, has no ability to think whatsoever. It just accepts what you tell it." "You must raise your consciousness to the frequency you need to achieve it." "Every meaningful journey begins the same way. It doesn't begin with clarity, and it doesn't begin with confidence." "Responsibility is carrying your own backpack, and blame isn't asking someone else to carry your backpack." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    Más Menos
    1 h y 1 m
  • Joe's Christmas Special 2025

    Joe's Christmas Special 2025
    Dec 25 2025
    As Christmas Day arrives, Joe reflects on the themes of belief, focus, and empowerment, encouraging listeners to reset their mindset for the year ahead. Drawing from personal experiences, including a life-changing injury, Joe emphasises the importance of accountability and the power of belief structures in shaping our lives. KEY TAKEAWAYS Having someone to hold you accountable can provide the necessary prompts and support to keep you focused and committed to your goals, especially during times of reflection like Christmas. Your beliefs significantly influence your behaviour, which in turn affects your outcomes and ultimately shapes your life. It's essential to examine and challenge any limiting beliefs you may have outgrown. True focus is about doing less and removing distractions. Identifying and prioritising what truly matters in your life can lead to greater clarity and direction. Empowerment involves taking ownership of your choices and beliefs, leading to internal authority. Unlike motivation, which can be fleeting, empowerment is about consistent action and self-trust. This simple four-step process - acknowledge, release, realign, and act - can help you reset your mindset and prepare for the year ahead, allowing you to let go of what holds you back and embrace who you want to become. BEST MOMENTS "When you improvise, adapt, and overcome, things get so much better." "It's not who you think you are that's holding you back. It's who you think you're not." "Clarity without consistency just becomes wishful thinking." "Empowerment sounds like this: I decide what I'm doing next. I trust myself." "Let today be the moment you acknowledge it." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    Más Menos
    50 m
  • Lessons Learned from a Navy Commander’s Transition to Civilian Life

    Lessons Learned from a Navy Commander’s Transition to Civilian Life
    Dec 18 2025
    Today, Joe engages in a compelling conversation with Vince Scott, a former Navy officer with a rich background in military service and a successful transition to civilian life. Vince shares his upbringing on a 250-acre ranch in Missouri, his early aspirations for a military career, and his experiences at Admiral Farragut Academy, which set the stage for his acceptance into the prestigious United States Naval Academy. He also highlights the significance of preparation and opportunity in achieving success, while also reflecting on the cultural nuances within various military branches and their impact on teamwork and leadership. KEY TAKEAWAYS Success often comes from the intersection of preparation and opportunity. Being proactive in preparing for future challenges can help mitigate crises and lead to better outcomes. Having a mentor or coach who is a rung or two ahead in their career can significantly impact personal and professional growth. Associating with individuals who are successful can provide guidance and motivation. Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging due to cultural differences. Civilians may appreciate military service but often do not understand its relevance to civilian roles, making it essential for veterans to effectively communicate their skills. Experiences in military school and service academies instil discipline, leadership, and teamwork. These qualities are crucial for success in both military and civilian careers, emphasising the importance of structured environments in personal development. In technical fields, such as cybersecurity, the effectiveness of a team relies more on the quality of its people than on the technology or hardware used. Building a strong team and placing individuals in the right roles is vital for success. BEST MOMENTS "I was fortunate to sort of have that level of focus that really helped." "I think it's hugely important. I have a cousin of mine who wasn't doing very well, got moved by his parents into a high school that had a JROTC program and it really turned his life around." "Life is not fair. It's not gonna be fair. That's just not part of the plan." "I think the number one thing that I talk to transitioning veterans about is culture." "I was a little taken aback by the lack of understanding on the civilian side." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    Más Menos
    1 h y 43 m
  • Emma O'Reilly's Fight for LGBT Rights in the Military

    Emma O'Reilly's Fight for LGBT Rights in the Military
    Dec 11 2025
    Joe speaks with Emma O'Reilly, a former Royal Navy Wren, who shares her extraordinary journey from a challenging childhood marked by bullying to a military career that faced significant obstacles due to her sexuality. Emma recounts her experiences during basic training, the struggles of being one of the first women aboard a naval ship, and the harsh realities of being discharged for simply expressing her identity. Throughout the conversation, Emma highlights the importance of resilience, the value of mentorship, and the need for fairness and inclusion in the workplace. She also discusses her current involvement in advocating for LGBT veterans and the significance of creating a supportive environment for those who have faced discrimination. KEY TAKEAWAYS The journey from being bullied in school to joining the military highlights the importance of resilience. The ability to overcome personal challenges and failures, such as poor A-level results, can lead to new opportunities and personal growth. Experiences of bullying can lead to feelings of isolation and distrust, which can affect social interactions and mental health. However, these experiences can also foster a strong sense of determination and the desire to belong to a supportive community. Leaving the military can be a challenging transition, especially when it is involuntary. The process of redefining one's identity and purpose after being discharged can be daunting, but it can also lead to new career paths and personal development. Having a supportive network, whether through family, friends, or mentors, is crucial during difficult times. This support can help individuals navigate challenges and make significant life changes. Engaging in advocacy work, such as supporting LGBT veterans and fighting for equality, can transform personal trauma into a force for positive change. This involvement not only helps others but also aligns with personal values of fairness and justice. BEST MOMENTS "I think there's an element for a bully. They use the power that they feel that they can gain in a school setting to feel more in control themselves." "I was the one that passed, not the other two. Fabulous." "It just makes you feel that thing that I wanted, to belong, that was constantly being pulled further away from me at every point in time." "The only thing you'd done at this stage was say, 'I think I might be gay'." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    Más Menos
    57 m
  • How Dr. Carr Balanced Motherhood and a Thriving Psychology Practice

    How Dr. Carr Balanced Motherhood and a Thriving Psychology Practice
    Dec 4 2025
    In this episode, Joe engages in a captivating conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Carr, a former military psychologist turned successful private practice owner. They explore Elizabeth's journey from her childhood experiences in Girl Scouts to her military career, where she discovered her passion for mental health. Elizabeth shares valuable insights on stress management, the significance of building a strong support network, and the lessons learned from her military background that have shaped her approach to leadership and business. KEY TAKEAWAYS Seeking guidance from mentors or coaches can significantly enhance personal and professional growth. Engaging with those who have more experience can help navigate challenges and avoid costly mistakes. Successfully managing a career while raising children requires flexibility and creativity. Strategies such as delegating responsibilities and utilising support systems, like nannies or family, can ease the transition back to work. Effective stress management involves recognising the limits of what can be accomplished and being selective about where to invest energy. Accepting that not every idea can be pursued helps reduce stress and maintain focus. Skills learned in the military, such as leadership and a service-oriented mindset, are highly transferable to civilian careers. Supporting team members and fostering their success can lead to a thriving work environment. Focusing on personal strengths while delegating tasks that are not one's forte can lead to greater efficiency and satisfaction in both personal and professional realms. This approach allows individuals to excel in areas they are passionate about while ensuring that other responsibilities are managed effectively. BEST MOMENTS "I think that both of my parents did a really good job of putting me into an appropriate place. It's important to have some balance in that regard in terms of moral development." "I'd love to see a parenting exam that you have to do way before conception, right? If you could just do that before the baby's on the way." "I found the military to be so much more enjoyable, because it was all included in their military service." "How does it work over there and how did that make you feel? Because obviously, you felt about the people needed the treatment and yet they couldn't afford it." "I think that one of the things that I have found is that the military does a wonderful job of teaching leadership skills." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    Más Menos
    57 m
  • Navigating Life's Challenges: Angela Adroni on Family, Military Service, and Personal Growth

    Navigating Life's Challenges: Angela Adroni on Family, Military Service, and Personal Growth
    Nov 27 2025
    In this episode, Joe speaks with Angela Adroni, who shares her remarkable life story that begins in Uganda. Angela reflects on her childhood, highlighting her experiences growing up in a boarding school from a young age and the unique family dynamics she navigated with her parents, who were never married. Angela discusses the balance between city life and countryside adventures, fueled by her hardworking parents, particularly her father's entrepreneurial spirit as a businessman and founder of special needs schools and the Special Olympics. KEY TAKEAWAYS Angela Adroni shares her unique upbringing in Uganda, highlighting the positive aspects of her childhood despite her parents' separation and the challenges of living in a gated community. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive attitude in life, choosing to focus on the positives rather than the negatives, which has shaped her perspective and resilience. Angela's journey to the UK at 19 for university was marked by cultural shock and the challenges of adapting to a new environment, including the financial implications of the currency exchange. Her decision to join the RAF was influenced by the recession and the stability it offered, as well as her interactions with military personnel who spoke positively about their experiences. Throughout her military career, Angela faced significant challenges, including balancing her responsibilities as a single parent and advocating for flexibility in her role, ultimately leading her to complete 12 years of service. BEST MOMENTS "I think it depended. So again, it depends on how you want to see it. For me, I saw it as a positive because then I had two different parents." "I like to look at the positives. And I think choosing the positives has led me to look at life differently." "I think that is the Stuart thing. You're always looking at everything needs to be spotless." "I think it's good to stand up for what's right." "If you're forgetting, please just leave those chains. Don't be chained. Don't stay into the victim thing longer." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    Más Menos
    1 h y 23 m
  • Helen Valentino on ADHD, Abuse, and the Path to Self-Discovery

    Helen Valentino on ADHD, Abuse, and the Path to Self-Discovery
    Nov 20 2025
    In today's episode, Joe engages in a heartfelt conversation with Helen Valentino, who shares her extraordinary journey from a challenging childhood to her experiences in the military. Helen opens up about her upbringing, marked by family trauma and the struggles of growing up with undiagnosed ADHD. She recounts her decision to join the army, driven by a desire to escape her past and pursue a career in nursing. With honesty and honour, Helen reflects on her time in the military, the camaraderie she found, and the challenges she faced, including navigating a male-dominated environment. KEY TAKEAWAYS The individual experienced a difficult upbringing, including living with disabled grandparents and facing abuse from a parent, which significantly impacted their mental health and development. Despite attending an elite private school, they struggled academically due to undiagnosed ADHD, leading to feelings of inadequacy and a belief that they were "stupid" compared to peers. The decision to join the army was influenced by a desire to escape home life and a newfound interest in nursing after working as a care assistant. The military provided a structured environment that ultimately led to personal growth. The experience in the army fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork, especially during intense situations like the Gulf War, highlighting the importance of support among peers in high-pressure environments. After realising that a long-term military career was not suitable, the individual planned to pursue agency nursing and complementary therapies, indicating a desire to explore different avenues in healthcare beyond traditional nursing roles. BEST MOMENTS "I think looking back now, he probably had a lot of anger issues, a lot of unresolved trauma himself, as most of our parents do." "We didn't have Childline. There was no, you know, it was probably maybe another five or 10 years after it happened to me." "I was made to feel like I was stupid at school, really stupid." "I signed up to train as a nurse. I hadn't even contemplated the idea that there might be a war when I was in the army." "One of the things that's really special about the army is the camaraderie with your peers." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/ HOST BIO Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination. After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families. Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    Más Menos
    1 h y 46 m
adbl_web_global_use_to_activate_DT_webcro_1694_expandible_banner_T1